Midjourney launches video model V1 with 5 to 20-second clips

Authors: Alexey Shabanov

Publisher:

Published: 6/18/2025

Language:Chinese

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Host

Welcome back to 'Future Forward'! Today, we're diving into a topic that's both thrilling and a little daunting: the rise of personalized AI companions. Imagine having an AI that truly understands your nuances and anticipates your needs. It's a concept rapidly moving from sci-fi to reality, sparking immense excitement and debate among tech enthusiasts and ethicists alike.

Guest

The phenomenon we're observing is the rapid advancement in large language models and emotional AI, leading to digital entities that can simulate deep, empathetic interactions. These aren't just chatbots; they're designed to learn your preferences, moods, and even your conversational style over time, creating a uniquely tailored experience for each user. This level of personalization is unprecedented.

Host

Historically, AI assistance started with simple command-response systems like Siri or Alexa. But recent breakthroughs in neural networks and vast datasets have enabled AIs to generate human-like text and even synthesize emotions. This evolution from utility tools to potential companions marks a significant shift in how we might interact with technology daily, moving towards more intimate relationships.

Guest

However, this exciting development isn't without its challenges. Critics raise concerns about over-reliance, potential data privacy breaches, and even the psychological impact of forming emotional bonds with non-sentient entities. There's a fine line between helpful companionship and fostering isolation or creating unrealistic expectations for human relationships. It’s a complex ethical tightrope.

Host

The impact could be profound. On one hand, these AIs could provide invaluable support for mental health, education, and companionship for the elderly. On the other, they might blur the lines of reality, leading to issues like digital addiction or a decline in real-world social skills. Society must grapple with these trade-offs and consider the long-term societal consequences carefully.

Guest

Looking ahead, the future of personalized AI companions will likely involve robust regulatory frameworks and public education campaigns. Developers are focusing on transparency and ethical guidelines to ensure these AIs enhance, rather than diminish, human well-being. We might see a future where AI companions are integrated, yet clearly defined, tools for personal growth and connection.

Host

That's all for today's episode of 'Future Forward.' The journey into personalized AI companions is just beginning, filled with both promise and peril. It's a conversation we'll undoubtedly revisit as technology continues its relentless march forward. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to exploring more future trends with you next time. Stay curious!

Read original at TestingCatalog →

Midjourney released its first video model, V1, on 18 June 2025. Any subscriber, which includes about 20 million users, can press “Animate” under a still image—whether generated or uploaded—to receive four 5-second clips. These clips are extendable in 5-second increments up to a total of 20 seconds.There are two motion modes available: low, which involves subtle movements, and high, which includes larger camera or subject shifts.

Motion can either remain automatic or be directed by a text prompt. Creating a clip costs roughly eight image credits, with pricing starting at the regular $10 Starter tier. A slower “video relax” queue is currently being tested for Pro users.Introducing our V1 Video Model. It's fun, easy, and beautiful.

Available at 10$/month, it's the first video model for *everyone* and it's available now. pic.twitter.com/iBm0KAN8uy— Midjourney (@midjourney) June 18, 2025V1 lacks audio and is capped at 1080p/20 seconds, which means it trails behind Runway Gen-4, Luma Dream Machine, or OpenAI’s upcoming Sora in terms of scope.

However, it undercuts many rivals on cost. Testers have praised the coherence inherited from Midjourney V6.1, although high-motion scenes may experience flickering.Early reactions vary, from Phi Hoang’s comment that it is “surpassing expectations” to Reddit users noting gaps when compared to Sora-class realism.

Analysts describe the move as a quick entry into a crowded field rather than a finished film tool.Founded in 2022, the San Francisco lab earned $300 million in 2024 from its Discord-based image service. It now faces a Disney-Universal copyright lawsuit over its training data. Executives describe V1 as a step toward a future “world model” capable of creating explorable 3-D scenes.

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